Fly ash is the fine ash powder produced and collected at coal-fired power plants. When coal is ground and injected into burning chambers, it ignites and produces two types of ash: bottom ash and fly ash. As the names suggest, bottom ash, with its larger and heavier particle sizes, falls to the bottom of the combustion chamber whereas fly ash “flies” up with the exhaust stream. Fly ash is then filtered out and collected prior to the exhaust being released to the atmosphere. Fly ash develops cementitious properties when mixed with cement and water, making it the ideal supplementary cementitious material (SCM) for numerous concrete and cementing applications.
Ash Beneficiation
As energy producers are shifting away from coal fired generation, we are faced with a decline in the production of fly ash from existing power plants. Additionally, utilities are experiencing increased scrutiny regarding coal ash disposal. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency is challenging utilities to close or relocate their ash impoundments, a daunting and costly task with aggressive compliance timelines. Ash beneficiation from coal ash ponds and landfills is the solution to the growing demand for Coal Combustion Products (CCPs). Learn how Ashcor engineered a solution to address this shifting landscape.
Using fly ash in concrete helps increase the life of concrete structures by improving its overall strength and durability.
Using fly ash to replace or displace manufactured cement reduces greenhouse gases.
Every unit of fly ash is lighter than the cement it replaces, leading to increased volumes and more optimal mixes.
Fly ash's unique particle shape increases workability, allowing your mix to use less water.
Fly ash lowers the temperature of concrete during the curing period, reducing cracks and enhancing durability.
From improved mix performance and durability, to water reduction and environmental benefits, using fly ash helps keep more green in your pocket.
Through its unique properties, fly ash offers many benefits over a wide variety of applications. Take a look at the most common uses of Ashcor fly ash.